Neoclassical Art

Neoclassicism was a classical art movement that spanned from 1770 to 1830 and grew alongside Romanticism. This art style was developed as a return to the 'ideal' artistic expression and the various harmonic forms that were discovered by archaeologists as being archetypal of ancient Greek and Roman art.
Neoclassicism was a return to the foundations of classic art, whose purpose was to enlighten the viewer through sophisticated depictions of traditional Greek and Roman characteristics of beauty, purity, and harmony. Because this art was focused on aesthetic beauty meant for contemplation, most of the artwork featured in this category had people as the primary subject. However, the sculpted way that people were depicted wasn't the only characteristic of this art category. Idyllic compositions, carefully planned backgrounds, and metaphorical imagery all form a vision of ideal beauty in these framed neoclassical art.

William Bouguereau is one of the artists that exemplify neoclassical attitudes in his work. His paintings, which portray several different subjects, have beautifully sculpted figures that ignite the imagination and fascinate viewers. In addition, his clean line work and subtle palette of brilliantly colored figures are combined with the highly detailed, shallow backgrounds, which are similar to theatrical backdrops in execution, characteristics which are perfectly in line with the neoclassical aesthetics.

However, one of the art works that helped to revolutionize this category into what it is today was the painting 'Oath of the Horatii' by Jacques-Louis David. Rather than trying to copy the works of classic artists, this French painter worked to redefine these principles into something unique with his work, and succeeded. Thanks to this artist and other French influences, Neoclassicism gained its signature look before being adapted fully by Western artists as an innovative way of depicting the world around them.

Because of the rich colors and fanciful subjects of this art, Neoclassicism has become a special favorite of art enthusiasts around the world. In many ways, this category has redefined what art means for the people today and will continue to inspire audiences in the future.